Suspicious activity reported near Anne Arundel County elementary school determined to be unfounded
Suspicious activity that was reported near an Anne Arundel County elementary school on January 12 was determined to be unfounded, police said Tuesday.
Police initially reported that a man tried to lure students into his car at a bus stop. However, they later determined that the incident was a misunderstanding and that the man was a grandparent who was looking for his grandchild.
The alleged incident occurred near 1405 Duke of Kent Drive, as three middle school students were at a bus stop at Crofton Elementary School. According to police, the students said the man pulled up and asked them to get into his car.
According to police, the man told the students he was taking them to school. The students refused and ran away, and the driver left.
The students were safely taken to school, where they told officials about the encounter, police said.
The incident prompted an increase in patrol officers during school drop-off and pick-up times.
Safety tips
Police urged parents and students to take precautions when walking to school or waiting for the bus.
Officials suggest the following:
- Have children walk in groups or with a partner
- Instruct children to be aware of their surroundings
- Urge children not to take items from strangers
- Create a plan to help children take action if a stranger approaches
- Teach children to report any unusual activity to a parent, guardian, teacher or police officer
Parents and students can report safety concerns anonymously to the Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line at 833-MD-B-SAFE.